NEWS & EVENTS

April 22, 2025

In today’s commentary, Rabbi Falick talks about the launch of a new congregational book group focusing on Israel and Zionism with the thought-provoking books of Dr. Einat Wilf ... and why these conversations matter now more than ever.

CLICK HERE TO READ

✦ THIS FRIDAY & SATURDAY!

April 25 at 7PM / April 26 at 9:30AM


MOVEMENT-WIDE LEARNING SHABBAT!


WITH LEADERS FROM THE SOCIETY FOR HUMANISTIC JUDAISM & INT'L. INSTITUTE FOR SECULAR HUMANISTIC JUDAISM!

Our special weekend of Humanistic Jewish Celebration Learning begins on Friday night at 7pm:


  • Celebrate the publication of Contemporary Humanistic Judaism: Beliefs, Values, Practices with its editors Rabbi Adam Chalom (Kol Hadash, Deerfield, IL) and Rabbi Jodi Kornfeld (Beth Chaverim, Deerfield, IL). They will share why this volume represents an important milestone for Humanistic Judaism.


We continue with learning on Saturday, April 26 from 9:30-11:45am


  • At 9:30am, join us for a panel discussion with Rabbi Chalom, Rabbi Falick and Rabbi Kornfeld: "Blessings and Curses in Deuteronomy"


  • At 10:45am, learn about "The History and Future of the International Institute for Secular Humanistic Judaism" during a panel discussion with Rabbi Chalom, Madrikha Julie Gales (Jewish Cultural Soc., Ann Arbor), and Rabbi Miriam Jerris (Soc. for Humanistic Judaism).


ALL ARE WELCOME!

BOTH ARE AVAILABLE IN PERSON OR ON YOUTUBE ... Click HERE or on these graphics for YouTube (live & recorded).

MAY 2 - No Shabbat Service

✦ Friday, May 9, 7PM


▶︎ 🇮🇱🇮🇱 SPECIAL ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY SERVICE! 🇮🇱🇮🇱


RABBI FALICK WILL SPEAK...


THE JEWISH PEOPLE, THE JEWISH STATE, AND THE FUTURE WE SHAPE

In this special Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Independpence Day) service, Rabbi Falick will look at Israel as it was meant to be, as it is today, and as it could still become. A talk about peoplehood, democracy, and the enduring importance of a Jewish homeland in an uncertain world.

✦ Friday, May 16, 7PM


▶︎ RABBI FALICK WILL SPEAK...


BETWEEN SAFETY AND FREEDOM: JEWISH CONSIDERATIONS OF POWER, PROTEST, AND PRINCIPLE

As antisemitism rises and universities reel from protests, policy shifts, and political pressures, how should Jews respond? From campus deportations to billion-dollar funding freezes, recent headlines have sparked urgent questions about speech, security, and the limits of tolerance. Rabbi Falick will explore what is at stake—legally, morally, and communally.


With insights from Deborah Lipstadt, Jonathan Greenblatt, Rabbi Sharon Brous, and others, he’ll take a look at how Jewish leaders are charting dramatically different paths.


Drawing from Humanistic Jewish values and our congregation’s own history, Rabbi Falick will reflect on the tension between protecting our people and preserving the freedoms that make such protections possible.

THIS Sunday, April 27, 3PM

YOM HA‐SHOAH

(HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL DAY)


"SOUNDS NOT SILENCED"

A Concert of Holocaust-Era

Jewish Composers

A legacy of incredible music from the Holocaust survives left by composers, only one of whom survived, who suffered during the Shoah.


Join us for a presentation of rarely heard masterworks performed in this chamber music concert. Under the direction of CHJ's own Joseph Palazzolo, virtuoso musicians will bring these compositions to life.


The program will also share the fascinating stories of their struggles to compose these works and to ensure that their music would survive them, to be performed for generations to come. With compositions spanning different nationalities and styles—some full of pathos, others bright and lively—this concert is a powerful testament to triumph over tragedy.


Timed to Observance of Yom Ha-Shoah, Jewish Holocaust Memorial Day, a brief candle-lighting will precede the concert.


NO CHARGE FOR MEMBERS

DONATIONS REQUESTED FROM GUESTS

Join Rabbi Falick this summer for a thoughtful exploration of Zionism through the works of Dr. Einat Wilf.


CLICK HERE for Rabbi Falick's latest commentary where you can learn more about the group and the books.

ROAD CONSTRUCTION ON 12 MILE!


Starting on April 14, resurfacing work will begin on 12 Mile Road between Inkster and Autumn Ridge (just east of Middlebelt).


Our building, located on the south side of 12 Mile, will be directly affected.


  • Eastbound 12 Mile will be closed during construction.


  • Westbound 12 Mile will remain open.


  • Eastbound travelers will need to approach from Inkster Road or from west of Inkster in order to access the building.



  • Expect detours and delays, especially near Inkster Road, where parts of the intersection will also close in phases.


Construction is expected to last through early fall 2025.

HUMANISTIC

GRIEF SUPPORT GROUP

WEDNESDAYS,10AM


Upcoming Sessions:

April 30; May 14 & 28;

June 11 & 25


Please contact Ann-Marie Fisher at ed@chj-detroit.org before attending. Sessions will be closed to new participants after April 30.

MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT

AND BRUNCH

May 11, Noon


Click HERE or on the graphic to purchase tickets in advance.

NEW PROGRAM!


The Social Justice Committee is happy to announce our new project:


OUT AND ABOUT A CAUSE

Enjoyable outings to raise funds for causes we support. 


Join us for our inaugural program...

Eastern Market Tour!

Enjoy a guided stroll through Detroit’s Eastern Market with our host Linda Yellin of Feet on The Street. This is a private tour for temple members and friends that will enlighten us on the development, community, and art of the Eastern Market District. Market snacks of cheese and crackers, nuts, and chocolate are included in the tour. The tour is limited to 25 participants.



Tuesday May 13, 10:30AM

Rain or Shine

Meet at 10:15 / 2-hr. tour begins at 10:30

at Eastern Market's DeVries & Co.,

2468 Market Street, Detroit

Parking available in the lot adjacent to Market Street

 

Contribution: $36 per person (double Chai!)


Checks must be at Temple no later than May 6

Please make the check out to Congregation for Humanistic Judaism and add “Eastern Market” in the memo line.

 

Net proceeds support the refugee resettlement programs at Freedom House and Jewish Family Services of Washtenaw County.

 

Questions? Contact Audrey Pleasant, 313.478.6414, or Karen Strichartz, 248.508.1137

**JUST ADDED OPTIONAL BONUS TOUR**

Join us for a visit to the Tuesday Flower Market!

NEXT SJC MEETING


Sunday, May 18, 11AM, on Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82417709465


Come help us plan!


For more information and meeting password, contact Audrey Pleasant (audreypleasant@gmail.com).

JOIN THE SJC EMAIL LIST!


Stay up-to-date!


If you want email updates about events, contact Audrey Pleasant:

(audreypleasant@gmail.com) to sign up!


No obligation!

KNIT, CROCHET & CRAFT FOR A CAUSE!


Next Gathering TBA

An array of recent warm hats knitted by our group!

Contact Audrey Pleasant: audreypleasant@gmail.com to be on the reminder list.

IMPORTANT LINKS


YAHRZEITS

Click here to see upcoming Yahrzeits.

TRIBUTES

Click here to see recent Tribute Gifts.

WELL WISHES


BEST WISHES FOR A SPEEDY RECOVERY TO


Lee Bricker

Saul Forman

Jim Walker


Please inform us if you know that someone is ill or in need.

COMMUNITY EVENT


Detroit Jewish Federation:

Celebrating Israel at 77

We’re marking Israel’s 77th Independence Day by returning for a private evening at the Detroit Zoo. Join us as we come together for an unforgettable community celebration!


Dress in your favorite white and blue and get ready for an amazing time—there's something for everyone:


  • Food Tent Featuring Israeli Favorites (Dietary laws observed; dinner served until 8:00 pm)
  • Community Fair Hosted by Our Partners: Enjoy Israeli-themed crafts, games, and more!
  • Opening Ceremony (6:45 pm)
  • Meet & Greet Israeli Characters Through the Ages with the ShinShinim.
  • Zoo Exploration: Roam the zoo at your own self-guided pace. 


Take advantage of our early-bird prices by registering before April 20.


$20 per person (3 and up)

$65 per family (2 adults + up to 5 kids)

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

ONLINE, IN-PERSON & BOTH!

Classes are for members only or by arrangement with Rabbi Falick or Ann-Marie Fisher, exec. director.


RABBI FALICK'S MONDAY CLASS:

THE AMERICAN JEWISH EXPERIENCE

In person and online. Previous sessions can be viewed at our YouTube channel (link at top of newsletter). RESUMES IN THE FALL!


SOCRATES CAFE

Tuesdays, 11AM

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/182488428


MAH-JONGG

Tuesdays, 1-2:30PM, In-Person

For more information, contact Denise Parker, 248.321.9428.


CANASTA

Thursdays, 1-3PM, In-Person

For more information, contact Debbie Lopas at 248.331.3480 / debbielopas@gmail.com or Cathy Radner at ‭248.229.8954‬ / radner210@gmail.com.


YOGA

Wednesdays, 9:30AMIn-Person

with Connie Grossman

ZOOM REQUIRES A PASSWORD!

The password was sent under separate cover. Please contact rabbi@chj-detroit.org if you need it.


ONLINE VIDEOS OF PROGRAMS & CLASSES

Visit LibrarySHJ.com and our YouTube page for videos of past services, classes, lectures, and more!

CONGREGATION FOR HUMANISTIC JUDAISM

OF METRO DETROIT


248.477.1410 / office@chj-detroit.org


STAY CONNECTED:

VISIT OUR WEBSITE!